Canadian Government Warns Travelers Of Fatal Heat Wave, Flight Suspensions, And Uncertain Security In Generally Safe Destinations
Canada has been busy issuing new travel advisories since the start of 2026. Over the past week, it issued two rare “Avoid All Travel” updates for Yemen and Venezuela, along with this weekend’s unusual Level 4 alert for Iran due to flight suspensions. Canadian travelers are even warned about fatal risks in generally safe destinations.
In its most recent travel advisory updates, the Canadian government cautions its citizens about a deadly heat wave, weather hazards, and uncertain security situations in countries that snowbirds have been flocking to. This list includes beautiful getaways in the Caribbean, Oceania, Asia, South America, and Africa.
Here are the places you should avoid or be more mindful of during this season.
Canadian Travelers Warned About Australia’s Fatal Heat Wave And Extreme Flooding In Malaysia
Canada has issued urgent updates on natural disasters and climate for Australia and Malaysia, both of which have a general Level 1 (“Take normal security precautions”) travel advisory. Canadian travelers are warned about severe humidity and heat in Australia, which could cause fatal dehydration and heatstroke.
This heatwave peaks during mid to late summer (December to February). Recent temperatures have soared past 40ºC throughout the country, with the highest recorded in Western Australia, reaching 49ºC in Onslow on the Pilbara coast. The Canadian government adds that Australia’s sizzling beach season is also bush and forest fire season:
“Bush and forest fires are common between October and April, particularly in areas covered by bushes, long grass or coastal scrub,” reads the travel advisory update for Australia. “Elevated fire danger ratings and alert levels may be applied to affected areas. The air quality in areas near active fires may deteriorate due to heavy smoke.”
Malaysia‘s latest travel advisory update warns about heavy rain and flooding in its Sarawak and Sabah states on the island of Borneo. The country has been intensely affected by the 2025-2026 Northeast Monsoon, with occurrences of flash floods, significant damage to infrastructure, injuries, and deaths.
The Canadian government advises that these weather conditions in Malaysia could lead to landslides or floodwater blocking major roadways. Travelers are told to do the following:
- Move away from rivers and low-lying areas affected by the rains
- Monitor local news and weather reports
- Follow the authorities’ instructions and evacuation orders
- Confirm their flight before heading to the airport
Canada Updates “Avoid All Travel” Advisories For Iran And Venezuela With Flight Suspension Warnings
Canada recently updated its “Avoid All Travel” advisories for Iran and Venezuela amid escalating conflict. Flight suspensions were highlighted in both, as the government reminds Canadians to leave both countries immediately and to avoid going there due to various risks, such as arbitrary detention and the unpredictable enforcement of local laws.
Canada’s flight suspension warning for Iran states: “You should leave Iran if you can do so safely. Many airlines have suspended flights to and from Iran at this time, but there are overland crossing options.”
Canada emphasizes in its travel advice for Venezuela that options to leave the country are significantly reduced as several airlines have already suspended flights to and from the country. Borders and airspace could also close with little notice.
Canada Raises Alerts On Unpredictable Dangers In Tourist-Friendly Destinations
Canada just raised its travel advisory level for Jamaica to Level 2 due to a spike in violent crime, particularly in non-tourist areas. Travelers are advised to exercise a high degree of caution and stay within their resorts where there is police presence. It is noted, however, that robbery and assault incidents could still occur here.
The Canadian government has also heightened its safety and security warnings for Bolivia, Uganda, Guinea-Bissau, and Benin—all of which also have general level 2 travel warnings. Canadian tourists are warned about the increased roadblocks in Bolivia since Dec. 19 due to transport strikes and demonstrations in La Paz, Santa Cruz, Cochabamba and other areas of the South American destination.
Benin was given a brief warning about its Jan. 11 elections due to certain areas where protests and large gatherings are held. The same was issued for Uganda with its upcoming Jan. 15 presidential elections, as such demonstrations could potentially turn violent. Lastly, for Guinea-Bissau, Canadians are reminded that the West African nation has been experiencing political instability since Nov. 26 last year.
“On November 26, 2025, following the presidential election, the army seized power, announced the suspension of the electoral process, and formed a transitional government,” says Canada’s updated travel advisory for Guinea-Bissau. “Although calm has been restored, the political situation remains uncertain.”
Make sure to check the Government of Canada’s latest travel advisories before going to these countries this season. These travel advice pages are updated regularly to reflect current situations in these countries. Actionable personal safety tips are also given for each indicated risk to ensure a smooth and secure trip for Canadian travelers.
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